the obama administration wants to send a clear message that while it supports syria's coalition opposition, to lead syria's democratic transition when the assad regime falls, there is no place for extremism in the country's future. so you see these parallel actions. recognizing the opposition formally but at the same time labeling certain parts of it as, you know, terrorists. so that's an important distinction there. and all eyes are glued to whether chemical weapons will be used or not. >> as you can allude to, they're opening the door for that possibility down the road. but responsibly. >> and we should point out that the full interview with president obama and the first lady will air on friday on "20/20" and "nightline." a cool tradition that barbara gets to sit down in the white house during the holidays and talk to both. certainly no shortage of topics as 2012 winds down. >> but yet the platform is not like she gets extended time for it. "20/20" is still the same amount of time, even though topics are -- >> we'll be back. stay with us. >>> well, this is big. there's a potential breakt